Leviticus 13:48 (KJV)

What does Leviticus 13:48 mean?

Leviticus 13:48 lists the types of materials that could be affected by a specific kind of impurity, mentioning woven or knitted items ("warp" and "woof") made of linen or wool, as well as objects made from animal skin. The verse sets out what kinds of items the priest should examine for signs of contamination.

In this section, God is giving Moses and Aaron instructions for the Israelites about how to handle cases of "leprosy" or mold—not just on people, but also on clothing and leather goods. The verse is part of a detailed set of rules for identifying and dealing with ritual impurity in the camp, showing concern for both health and ceremonial cleanliness.

The Hebrew behind Leviticus 13:48

• "warp" (שְׁתִי, sheti): This word refers to the lengthwise threads in a woven fabric. Its mention shows that even the basic components of cloth could be affected.
• "woof" (עֵרֶב, erev): This is the crosswise thread in weaving. Including both "warp" and "woof" emphasizes that any part of a fabric, not just finished garments, could become unclean.
• "linen" (פִּשְׁתִּים, pishtim) and "woollen" (צֶמֶר, tsemer): Naming both linen and wool makes clear that the law applies to the main types of fabric used by the Israelites, not just one or the other.
• "skin" (עוֹר, or): This word covers animal hides used for clothing or other items. The repetition and inclusion of "anything made of skin" (מְלֶאכֶת עוֹר, melechet or) broadens the rule to all leather goods, not just garments.

Why Leviticus 13:48 matters

• This verse clarifies that ritual impurity could affect not just people, but also everyday objects and materials, showing the thoroughness of the laws given to Israel.
• By listing both woven and leather items, the verse highlights the practical reality of ancient life, where clothing and goods came from a variety of sources.
• The verse connects to the wider passage by setting up the kinds of items the priest would need to inspect, preparing the reader for the detailed instructions that follow about diagnosing and handling such impurities.